"Series" - what is it, definition of the term
A succession of related items arranged according to a rule, where each successive element derives from its predecessor, constitutes a series; in biomedical research this often describes a set of consecutive experiments involving rodents such as rats and mice, each iteration building on the data obtained in the previous trial.
Detailed information
The term denotes an ordered set of items that share a common characteristic and are examined sequentially. In laboratory biology, this concept is applied to collections of rodent subjects used for systematic investigation. Each element in the set represents an individual or group of rats or mice that undergoes a defined experimental protocol, allowing researchers to track changes over time or across conditions.
In genetics, the concept refers to a series of strains that differ by specific alleles. By comparing these strains, scientists can isolate the effects of particular genes on traits such as metabolism, behavior, or disease susceptibility. The sequential nature of the set ensures that each strain is evaluated under identical environmental parameters, reducing variability.
Common applications include:
- Dose‑response experiments, where successive groups receive increasing concentrations of a compound.
- Developmental studies, with cohorts examined at distinct ages (e.g., neonatal, juvenile, adult).
- Behavioral assays, where subjects are tested across multiple trials to assess learning curves or anxiety levels.
Data derived from such ordered collections are typically analyzed using statistical methods that account for the inherent correlation between successive elements. Techniques such as repeated‑measures ANOVA or mixed‑effects modeling are standard for interpreting trends and identifying significant differences.
The structured approach provides reproducibility, facilitates meta‑analysis, and supports the establishment of reference values for physiological and pharmacological parameters in rodent models.